How to get your boiler ready for Christmas

It’s that time of year again when we start the boiler going after the long, hot summer. Getting your boiler ready for cold weather is an essential part of keeping your home warm and cosy through the winter, especially at Christmas. Nobody wants to spend Christmas Day shivering with no heating or hot water!

Here are the essential steps you need to take to make sure your boiler and the rest of your heating system don’t let you down at Christmas or any other time of year.

Get a service

Keeping your boiler regularly serviced means it works more efficiently and is less likely to break down. Make sure you contact a Gas Safe engineer to undertake the work so your boiler has a clean bill of health.

Powerflushing uses high water pressure and chemicals to clean your heating system. Unlike an annual boiler service, a powerflush needs to be performed every five years to keep your central heating system in top working order. Ask your gas engineer for further details.

Check and bleed your radiators

Once the boiler is serviced, turn the thermostat to full and check your radiators. If any are colder at the top than the bottom, bleed them to ensure they work efficiently. This is a simple operation to get rid of air in the system so the radiator continues to heat your home effectively.

Lag your pipes

Burst water pipes can cause misery and chaos in the home, especially at Christmas! Lagging is a straightforward DIY job that can be achieved in a few hours. Not only does it prevent your pipes from freezing, but it makes them more efficient by preventing heat loss.

Go smart, save money

Smart thermostats claim they can save up to 30% on your energy bills. They also make setting up and controlling heating zones from your smartphone a snap. Getting your boiler ready for cold weather is an essential part of keeping your home warm and cosy through the winter Consider replacing your old thermostat for a warmer and more efficient system.

Check your carbon monoxide detector

Known as the silent killer, carbon monoxide has no smell or taste. Test your alarms so there’s no risk when the house is full of family and visitors at Christmas.